ThirstyforKnowledge

An encyclopedia of drinks — mixed, poured, brewed and whisked

No. 113 Tea

Masala chai

Black tea simmered with milk, sugar and warming spices such as cardamom, ginger and cinnamon. A house recipe.

A cup of milky masala chai with biscuits and whole spices
Masala chai Photo: Miansari66, Public domain

Recipe card

ml oz

Makes 2 servings · about 12 min to make

Ingredients

Ounces are US fluid ounces (29.57 ml), rounded.

Method

  1. Simmer the water with the spices for 3–4 minutes.
  2. Add the tea and simmer for 2 minutes.
  3. Add the milk and sugar and bring back to a gentle simmer, watching it so it doesn't boil over.
  4. Strain into cups.
Glass
Cups or mugs
Technique
Brewed
Difficulty
Easy

Printable recipe card

About the Masala chai

Our house recipe. Chai means tea in many parts of the world; masala chai is spiced milky tea from India. The spices vary from region to region; cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, cloves and pepper are the most common.

Background

Masala chai originated in India. It is made by adding aromatic herbs and spices to chai: black tea brewed in milk and water and sweetened.

Tags: spiced milky india

Go deeper

Sources

  1. UK Tea & Infusions Association — Varieties of tea
  2. Wikipedia — Masala chai

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